Hellebore Helleborus × sternii 'Silver Dollar'
ABOUT
The Helleborus × sternii 'Silver Dollar', often known as the Lenten Rose, presents a charming display in the garden with its unique and attractive aesthetic. This beautiful plant typically boasts leathery, evergreen foliage that glistens with a silver sheen, giving it its distinct 'Silver Dollar' name. The foliage is divided into leaflets that are serrated along the edges, adding to the textured appeal of the plant. Flowering in late winter to early spring, the Lenten Rose unfurls blossoms that are a delightful shade of pink to pale green. These cup-shaped flowers dangle elegantly from the stems, nodding modestly as if avoiding the limelight. The blooms stand out against the frosty foliage, ensuring the Lenten Rose is a focal point in the garden during a time when few other plants are in flower. The plant's marvelous flowers and foliage create a rich tapestry of color and form. The Lenten Rose is a cherished specimen for shaded garden areas, where its subtle beauty can be appreciated up close. As the seasons change, the flowers slowly fade to a greenish hue, extending the plant's visual interest well into the spring season. This is a plant of notable charm, bringing grace and beauty to areas that are often left barren during the cooler months of the year.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Ranunculaceae
Synonyms
Hellebore, Lenten Rose, Winter Rose, Christmas Rose
Common names
Helleborus × sternii 'Silver Dollar'
ToxicityTo humans
Hellebores, including Helleborus × sternii 'Silver Dollar', contain compounds that are toxic when ingested. All parts of the plant, including leaves, stems, flowers, and roots, are poisonous. Upon ingestion, toxins can cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. Severe cases may lead to nervous system effects like dizziness and tremors. Skin contact with the sap may result in irritation or dermatitis for sensitive individuals.
To pets
Hellebores are toxic to pets as well. Ingesting any part of the plant, including the Helleborus × sternii 'Silver Dollar' variety, can lead to symptoms like drooling, abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea in animals such as dogs and cats. In severe cases, ingestion can cause central nervous system depression, manifesting as tremors or seizures. Direct contact with the plant's sap may also cause skin irritation.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Silver-green
Flower color
Pink
Height
1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters)
Spread
1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
6
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic appeal: Helleborus × sternii 'Silver Dollar', also known as Hellebore, has attractive silver-tinged foliage and delicate pale-green flowers, which bring visual interest to gardens.
- Early blooming: Hellebores are one of the first flowers to bloom in late winter or early spring, offering color and life when most other plants are dormant.
- Drought tolerance: Once established, Hellebores have good drought tolerance, making them suitable for gardens with less frequent watering.
- Low maintenance: Hellebores require minimal care once established, needing only occasional watering and feeding, along with the removal of old leaves to keep them looking tidy.
- Pest resistance: They are generally resistant to pests and diseases, which minimizes the need for chemical treatments in the garden.
- Long-lasting blooms: The flowers of Hellebores are long-lasting, often remaining attractive for several months.
- Shade tolerance: Hellebores are well-suited for shaded areas where many other plants may struggle to thrive, providing options for dark corners of the garden.
- Deer and rabbit resistance: These plants are seldom bothered by deer and rabbits, making them an excellent choice for areas where these animals are common.
- Perennial growth: Hellebores are perennials, meaning they come back year after year, which makes them a sustainable addition to the garden landscape.
- Versatility: They can be used in a range of garden designs, including woodland gardens, rock gardens, and border plantings.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Hellebore 'Silver Dollar' can be utilized in dried floral arrangements after its vibrant bloom period has passed to add an enduring aesthetic to interior decor.
- With its unique silver-tinged foliage, hellebore can be incorporated into garden photography to create striking visual contrasts when combined with other plants.
- As a ground-cover plant, 'Silver Dollar' can be effective in controlling soil erosion on slopes or in shaded garden areas.
- The hellebore's sturdy, evergreen leaves provide a year-round green backdrop for winter garden displays, making it a favorite for landscape designers.
- In rural traditions, hellebore leaves have been used to line planting holes for roses to deter pests, although this use is not scientifically verified and is cautioned against due to the plant's toxicity.
- The hellebore's dense foliage can be instrumental in providing shelter for beneficial garden insects and small wildlife during harsh conditions.
- During Victorian times, hellebores were part of the language of flowers and could be used in bouquets to convey a message of tranquility or alleviate worry.
- The seed pods of hellebore can be used in creative crafts or as a natural element in homemade potpourris.
- In some cultural art projects, the leathery texture of hellebore leaves may be used for leaf-printing or botanical casting practices.
- As part of a sensory garden, the leathery leaves and subtle hues of hellebore 'Silver Dollar' can offer a tactile and visual experience distinct from more vibrantly colored plants.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Hellebore is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Hellebore is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: Helleborus, often known as Lenten Rose, blooms in the coldest months, sometimes piercing through snow, symbolizing the ability to endure and thrive in difficult conditions.
- Tranquility: With its subtle colors and long-lasting flowers, Lenten Rose evokes a sense of calm and tranquility, making it symbolic of peace and serenity.
- Protection: In ancient lore, Helleborus was believed to have protective qualities, warding off negative influences and evil spirits when planted near the entrance of a home.
- Hope: Blooming in late winter or early spring, the Lenten Rose is often associated with hope, representing the promise of spring and renewal after a long, dark winter.
WaterHellebore 'Silver Dollar' should be watered deeply and thoroughly, allowing the water to reach the roots without oversaturating the soil. It's best to water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which typically means providing water once a week, depending on climate and soil conditions. Aim for about one gallon of water per week during active growth in spring and fall, reducing frequency during the dormant summer and winter periods. Overwatering must be avoided to prevent root rot.
LightHellebore 'Silver Dollar' thrives in partial shade to full shade conditions. It is best situated in a location that offers morning sun with dappled afternoon shade or a consistently shaded area, particularly in hot climates. Avoid placing it in full sun, as the intense light can scorch the foliage and stress the plant.
TemperatureHellebore 'Silver Dollar' prefers cooler conditions and is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 40 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. It can withstand winter temperatures down to 0 degrees Fahrenheit, but may suffer if exposed to extended periods of intense summer heat above 90 degrees Fahrenheit.
PruningPrune Hellebore 'Silver Dollar' to remove old, damaged foliage and to maintain plant health and appearance. The best time for pruning is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Cut back dead and discolored leaves close to the base to encourage fresh, new growth and improve air circulation. Pruning is typically done annually, and any spent flowers can also be deadheaded after bloom to promote seed production if desired.
CleaningAs needed
SoilHellebore 'Silver Dollar' thrives best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. An ideal soil mix for this plant can be made by combining two parts garden soil, one part coarse sand or perlite, and one part compost or well-rotted manure to ensure proper drainage and fertility.
Repotting'Silver Dollar' hellebores generally do not require frequent repotting and can thrive in the same pot for several years. They should only be repotted if the plant outgrows its current container or the soil has become compacted or depleted, typically every 3 to 4 years.
Humidity & MistingHellebore 'Silver Dollar' prefers moderate humidity levels, but it is quite adaptable and can tolerate a range of conditions. As long as it isn't exposed to extremes—such as very dry air or constant dampness—it often fares well without specific humidity requirements.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Grow 'Silver Dollar' in bright, indirect light and cool temperature indoors.
Outdoor
Plant 'Silver Dollar' in part shade and sheltered from harsh winds.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleHelleborus × sternii 'Silver Dollar', commonly known as the Hellebore, begins its life as a seed that germinates in cool temperatures after stratification. Once sprouted, the seedling develops into a young plant with a rosette of leaves close to the ground. As the plant matures, it forms a robust root system and evergreen foliage, with leaves acquiring a silver sheen. The Hellebore reaches flowering maturity usually within a couple of years, producing pale green or pinkish flowers in late winter to early spring. After pollination, typically by bees, the flowers develop into capsule-like fruits containing numerous seeds that are dispersed to start new plants. Following seed dispersal, the Hellebore continues its growth cycle, remaining mostly evergreen and resuming flowering annually.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
The Helleborus × sternii 'Silver Dollar', commonly known as Hellebore, is best propagated by seed. Sowing the seeds can be done as soon as they are ripe, which usually falls in late spring or early summer. Fresh seeds should be sown in trays filled with a well-drained soil mix and lightly covered with soil. Place the trays in a cold frame or a sheltered outdoor spot. The seeds require a period of cold stratification to germinate, so they may not sprout until the following spring. Once the seedlings have grown large enough to handle, usually by autumn or the following spring, they can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the garden. Patience is required, as hellebores can take several years to flower when grown from seed.
